A Tree for Mr. Fish - Hardcover

Stein, Peter

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1250758718 ISBN 13: 9781250758712

Publisher: Imprint, 2021

Synopsis

In this humorous and heartwarming picture book, Mr. Fish refuses to share his tree with Bird and Cat―until he learns that making friends is more rewarding than losing them.

Bird and Cat meet in a tree. But someone already lives in this tree―Mr. Fish. And he does not want to share.

After Bird and Cat leave, Mr. Fish discovers that it’s actually pretty boring to sit in a tree all by yourself. Getting Bird and Cat back―along with Mr. Fish’s old friends from the sea―is going to require some real work. And Mr. Fish is already having a tough time, because fish aren’t supposed to be on land in the first place.

Author-illustrator Peter Stein has created a quirky, hilarious take on the challenges and rewards of friendship―and being a fish out of water―in this unforgettable picture book that feels like a rediscovered classic.

An Imprint Book

About this title

About the Author

While Peter Stein is not a fish expert, he did once raise two goldfish geniuses that lived long, meaningful lives. Peter is the author of more than a dozen gift books and children’s books, including the popular Galore series with artist Bob Staake. A Tree for Mr. Fish is his second book as author-illustrator. Peter lives above water with his family in Northern California.

Reviews

PreS-Gr 2—"Fish don't belong in trees," point out friends Bird and Cat, reasonably. But Mr. Fish has a solid explanation for his presence, and he is staying put; when Cat observes, "Fish can't live out of water. They can't breathe," and Bird asks, "How are you even alive right now?" Mr. Fish simply obtains a "roly bowl" ("for the fish on the go"). Mr. Fish's loudness and rudeness drive Bird and Cat away. But when he tries to host a party for other fish, it's a flop. After some soul searching, Mr. Fish apologizes to Bird and Cat and asks for their help making the tree a pleasant and livable place for all. A deliberately static setting and flat perspectives encourage readers to notice changes from one page turn to the next, and there are many humorous touches from beginning to end ("fin"). VERDICT Whimsical, quirky, and unpredictable enough to keep kids and adults alike on their toes, this is a winner for story times or one-on-one—an all-around charming addition to picture book collections.—Jenny Arch, Lilly Lib., Florence, MA

Edition details

• Publisher: Imprint
• Publication date: 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1250758718
• ISBN 13: 9781250758712
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 40